PSL 9: Islamabad United defeat Lahore Qalandars in opening match

Lahore: Islamabad United secured a convincing victory over Lahore Qalandars by 8 wickets in the opening match of Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 9 at Gaddafi stadium on Saturday night. 

 The match witnessed a flurry of boundaries, setting an exciting tone for the tournament.

Chasing Lahore Qalandars' target of 196, Islamabad United displayed a strong batting performance, ultimately achieving their goal with ease.

Lahore Qalandars amassed 195 runs while losing five wickets.

Lahore Qalandars did batting first after Islamabad United won the toss and elected to bowl first in the first clash of the mega event.

Rassie van der Dussen led the charge with a formidable 71 off 41 balls, supported by Sahibzada Farhan's 57 off 36 balls and Abdullah Shafique's 28 off 22 balls. Fakhar Zaman contributed 13 runs off 13 balls, while David Wiese added 14 runs off 8 balls to bolster the score.

For Islamabad United, Tymal Mills claimed two wickets for 45 runs, while Shadab Khan and Naseem Shah secured one wicket each. Faheem Ashraf bowled three overs, conceding 40 runs without taking a wicket. Similarly, Ubaid Shah and Imad Wasim failed to secure any wickets.

The day featured a double-header starting at 2:00 PM, followed by the second match at 7:00 PM. Matches scheduled during Ramadan will commence at 9:00 PM. Lahore Qalandars' skipper, Shaheen Shah Afridi, expressed his team's ambition to secure their third title, while Gaddafi Stadium witnessed the inaugural ceremony of HBL PSL 9.

Captains from all franchises are geared up for PSL, with Islamabad United's leader Shadab Khan eyeing the trophy this season. Having learned from past mistakes, teams are determined to implement their strategies effectively.

Multan Sultans' captain, Mohammad Rizwan, emphasized the significance of commencing their campaign from their home ground in Multan. Meanwhile, Peshawar Zalmi's skipper, Babar Azam, exuded confidence in his team's ability to clinch the championship.

? TOSS UPDATE ?@IsbUnited win the toss and opt to field first against @lahoreqalandars ?#HBLPSL9 | #KhulKeKhel | #LQvIU pic.twitter.com/9HVc2yhbXd

— PakistanSuperLeague (@thePSLt20) February 17, 2024

In the evening, starting at 6:00 PM, fans were treated to breathtaking fireworks and captivating performances by renowned artists, including Arif Lohar, Noori Band, and singers Ali Zafar and Aima Baig, who lent their voices to the HBL PSL 9 anthem.